Maid-of-the-mist #2 – Lake Ontario Steamer Shipwreck (1955)

Explore the history of the Maid-of-the-Mist #2, a wooden steamer that served Niagara Falls until its destruction by fire in 1955.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: Maid-of-the-Mist #2
  • Type: Excursion Steamer
  • Year Built: 1892
  • Builder:
  • Dimensions: Length X ft (Y m); Beam; Depth of hold
  • Registered Tonnage:
  • Location: Niagara River, Niagara Falls, ON
  • Official Number: #2189
  • Original Owners: Maid of the Mist Co.

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Maid-of-the-Mist #2 was a wooden steamer designed for sightseeing excursions, featuring paddle-wheels that allowed it to navigate the waters of the Niagara River.

Description

The 1892 Maid-of-the-Mist was one of two large wooden steamers operated by the Maid of the Mist Co. It offered sightseeing excursions into the Niagara Gorge and was a significant part of the tourism experience at Niagara Falls.

History

The Maid-of-the-Mist #2 served from 1892 until its destruction in 1955. It was part of a fleet that provided excursions to visitors, showcasing the natural beauty of Niagara Falls.

Significant Incidents

  • Final Fire: On April 22, 1955, both the Maid-of-the-Mist #2 and its sister ship were destroyed by fire while docked for seasonal maintenance.
  • Casualties: No casualties were reported in the incident.

Final Disposition

After the fire, salvage was deemed impractical, leading to the removal of both vessels. The Maid of the Mist fleet transitioned to steel, diesel-powered vessels by mid-1955.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The remains of the Maid-of-the-Mist #2 are no longer present, as the vessel was removed following the fire. Historical records and images of the incident are preserved in local archives.

Resources & Links

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The loss of the Maid-of-the-Mist #2 marked the end of an era for wooden steam-powered vessels at Niagara Falls, symbolizing a shift towards modernization in the tourism industry.

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Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.

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